HMOs & PPOs: Understanding Managed Care

HMOs vs. PPOs – What Are the Differences Between HMOs and PPOs?
The most common types of managed care plans are health maintenance organizations (HMOs) and preferred provider organizations (PPOs). Less common are point-of-service (POS) plans that combine the features of an HMO and a PPO. Learn the differences between HMOs and PPOs.

How to Choose the Best HMO or PPO
HMO or PPO, how do I decide which health plan is best for my family? When you get health insurance from your employer, buy private insurance, join a high-risk plan offered by your state, or enroll in a government-funded program such as Medicaid or Medicare, you may have the opportunity to choose among several health plans.

Medicare Advantage Plans - Understanding Medicare Part C
Although most people with Medicare get their health benefits from Original Medicare (Parts A and B), you can choose to get coverage from a Medicare Advantage Plan, sometimes called Medicare Part C. These plans are offered by private health insurance companies that are approved by Medicare and have a contract to provide you with Medicare benefits.

Managed Care – Understanding Managed Care
Most Americans who have health insurance through their employer (and many who are self-insured) are enrolled in some type of a managed care plan. Managed care plans include health maintenance organizations (HMOs), preferred provider organizations (PPOs), and point of service (POS) plans.

Out-of-Network: Getting Health Care Out-of-Network
When is it best to pay more and use healthcare providers who are not in-network with your health insurance?

Have You Had Problems with Your HMO or PPO?
The most common types of managed care plans are preferred provider organizations (PPOs) and health maintenance organizations (HMOs). Many people do not fully appreciate the consequences of not using a doctor or hospital in their health plan. Have you had any problems getting the care you need from your PPO or HMO?

How to Find a Doctor You Like
Finding the right doctor to help you with your healthcare needs is very important. The relationship you develop with your physician greatly influences the health decisions you make and, in due course, your wellbeing.